Our Byron Community with Chris Hanley

Steve Snow on Cooking with Heart and Living by the Sea

Season 3 Episode 7

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In this episode, we speak with Steve Snow - celebrated seafood chef, founder of the iconic Fins Restaurant, and lifelong lover of food, family, and the ocean. Born on the Gold Coast and raised in Cronulla, Steve’s path didn’t start in the kitchen. He began with business and law, but quickly realised the corporate life wasn’t for him. What followed was a leap into a world where he could surf by day and cook by night.

Steve shares stories of learning to cook with his mum, working on boats in France, and why his love for fish - especially locally caught - has never wavered. He reflects on opening the original Fins in Brunswick Heads in the early 90s, how he brought global flavours to the Northern Rivers, and what still drives him today.

From TV appearances and best-selling cookbooks to decades of restaurant success, Steve’s journey is a reminder that doing what you love really can shape a life. As he puts it, cooking is about passion - and doing it with love.

If you’d like to share your story or provide feedback, please contact us via email at chrishanley@byronbayfn.com